Influenza Information

  • Influenza (flu) Information

    2014-Recent studies suggest that the nasal spray flu vaccine may work better than the flu shot in younger children. For more information about the new CDC recommendation, see Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine in Children 2 through 8 Years Old or the 2014-2015 MMWR Influenza Vaccine Recommendations.

    Flu Prevention
    Schools and health agencies are working together to prepare for the potential impact of the flu on families & schools. Here’s what you can do:

    • Wash your hands: wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
    • Cover your cough: cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder, not into your hands.
    • Flu shots: Talk with your doctor about what’s right for your family, and plan to get your family vaccinated.
    • Make a Plan: Plan for childcare at home if your child gets sick or school is dismissed.
    • What is the Flu?
    • Colds vs. Flu: Know the difference
    • Return to School Checklist from Dr. Gary Goldbaum, MD, MPH, Health Officer and Director Snohomish Health District

    Where can I retrieve the most accurate flu information?

    For the latest, most accurate information go to the Snohomish Health District, Washington State Department of Health, or basic information from the Center for Disease Control (CDC). For specific questions, call your family doctor (call before going into the office).

    Inactivated Flu Vaccine: Vaccination Information Statement (VIS)
    Live, Intranasal Flu Vaccine: Vaccination Information Statement (VIS)
    Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) — United States, 2014–15 Influenza Season, MMWR 2014, August 15, 2014 / 63(32);691-697
    Update: Influenza Activity — United States and Worldwide, May 18–September 20, 2014, MMWR 2014 / 63(39);861-864

    Pandemic Flu Plan/Procedures (updated October 2009)
    GFSD has developed information and a basic plan of action, based on the recommendations from the Center for Disease Control, in case a pandemic flu affects our region. This plan will be updated as information becomes available through state and federal resources. The District will follow the lead of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to address many as yet unresolved issues (180-day/graduation requirement, personnel/payroll issues, student learning alternatives, special education obligations, associated costs, etc).

    Our Pandemic Flu Plan is posted in PDF format for easier printing.
    Our MRSA Information Page includes information about the infection and the district’s response plan.